Donald Trump’s longstanding aspirations to win the Nobel Peace Prize and meet King Harald V of Norway have yet to be fulfilled. Meanwhile, his predecessor, Barack Obama, has already achieved both milestones.
Sources within the White House have revealed that Trump has long been fixated on the idea of winning the Nobel Peace Prize, a prestigious honor that eluded him during his presidency, despite his efforts on the global stage. Trump reportedly harbored a particular desire to meet King Harald V, a visit that would grant him access to one of Europe’s most well-known royal families. In fact, the former president even asked if King Harald could personally extend an invitation for him to visit the royal palace. However, Trump’s request went unanswered, and instead, the Norwegian royal family rolled out the red carpet for Obama.
On May 13, 2025, former President Barack Obama arrived in Norway, where he was warmly welcomed by King Harald V, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre at the royal summer estate in Bygdøyveien, located just outside Oslo. The meeting was described as a high-level luncheon focused on discussing “the current challenges in the USA.” It was not the first time Obama and the Norwegian royal family had met. In 2009, King Harald awarded Obama the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his efforts in international diplomacy, an honor that Trump continues to seek but has yet to achieve.
Obama’s visit to Norway comes at a time when he is actively engaged in discussions surrounding the state of democracy and the pressing global issues facing the world today. During his visit, he gave a lecture at the Oslo Spektrum on May 12. The event was moderated by Sofie Høgestøl, a former member of the Norwegian parliament, and centered on the future of democracy, international relations, and the challenges confronting countries in the modern era.
The meeting between Obama and the Norwegian royal family also coincides with a significant moment in the life of King Harald, who at 87 years old is stepping back from certain royal duties due to health concerns. King Harald recently underwent surgery to have a pacemaker implanted, a procedure that has prompted him to scale back his public engagements. Despite these health issues, King Harald made it a priority to meet with Obama during his visit, reaffirming the enduring diplomatic ties between the United States and Norway.
In a statement released by the Royal House on April 22, it was confirmed that King Harald would be reducing his participation in royal events moving forward, taking into account his age and health. “The King will make adjustments to his program in the future, out of consideration for his age,” the statement said. “This will entail a permanent reduction in the number and scope of activities in which the King participates.” Despite his health challenges, King Harald has made it clear that he is committed to serving in his role as monarch for as long as he is able.
Earlier this year, when asked if he might follow the example of Denmark’s Queen Margrethe, who recently stepped down from her duties as monarch due to health reasons, King Harald responded with conviction. “No, I don’t really have it,” he said. “I stand by what I have said all along. I have taken an oath to the Storting, and it lasts for life.” King Harald’s steadfast commitment to his royal duties underscores his sense of duty and responsibility, even in the face of health challenges.
While Obama’s visit was clearly a significant moment in U.S.-Norwegian relations, the contrast between him and Trump cannot be ignored. Obama, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his diplomatic efforts in 2009, has earned a place in history as a prominent figure on the world stage. Meanwhile, Trump, who has expressed a desire to achieve similar recognition, continues to strive for that elusive prize. His request for a personal audience with King Harald, while not granted, underscores his ongoing desire for international acclaim, particularly in the realm of diplomacy.
The royal meeting between Obama and King Harald also highlights the unique relationship between the U.S. and Norway, which has historically been marked by mutual respect and cooperation. Despite their differing political backgrounds and international approaches, both Obama and Trump have shown an interest in fostering strong ties with European nations, particularly with Norway, a country that has long been recognized for its commitment to peace and diplomacy on the world stage.
As King Harald steps back from some of his royal duties, Obama’s visit serves as a poignant reminder of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Norway. It also sheds light on the contrasting paths taken by two U.S. presidents who have played pivotal roles in shaping international diplomacy. For Trump, the visit and the unfulfilled invitation may only fuel his determination to secure a future meeting with the Norwegian monarch and, perhaps, one day, the Nobel Peace Prize he so desires.
